Tuesday, February 6, 2007

Material

Materiality plays a major role in defining the character of a place. In our case, by mere recollection and aerial views, Manor road is characterized mostly by residential, recreational, and transportation uses. There are appropriate and inappropriate uses of material in each of these areas (Emily and I will evaluate the latter upon seeing the site tomorrow).

While investigating the site we will observe where the same material may be used in different context throughout the site. Trees may be in both parks, residential yards, a bus stop, etc. Different types of wood can be used for fences, benches, house siding, a skateboard...

Why are certain material designated for these places and objects? What are they associated with? Are there alternatives?

I think it is important to research what materials are most prominent throughout Manor road and whether they are a positive or negative influence on the character they have created for the site. What about the users of the place- have they had a say in the way the site has evolved to its present state? What would they change? As architects what would we change? What is more important: innovating a place to accommodate a growing community or preserve historical value, if there is any? perhaps restoring the historical is sufficient.

I looked into the Mueller Project that is in effect to redevelop the old airport and the surrounding area (including Manor Rd.) Here are some of the specs on what is currently on the agenda:

Homes for 10,000 residents and 10,000 jobs,

More than 1,000 units of affordable housing,

Over 100 acres of public open space

Town Center and other employment and entertainment districts contributing to urban vitality and prosperity.

Transit-oriented and Pedestrian-friendly development,

Mueller will be "a laboratory" for innovative approaches to community development and governance.

For more info on the area's history, redevelopment plans, and more, here is the website go to :)